Education System - Introduction

All children between the ages of five and sixteen are entitled to free education in all state schools regardless of age, sex, belief and economic means. The national minimum curriculum and the national minimum regulations for all schools are established by the state according to the rights given by the Education Act (1988).

The education agenda of the present government works towards the ultimate aim of having flexible workers who are able to adapt and change career if necessary. This is attained through commitment for improvement of educational standards and the provision of an education system, which ensures personal development.

According to the Education Act (1988) a person or institution wishing to establish a private school is given the right to apply for a license from the Minister of Education. Private schools in Malta fall in two categories: Church schools and Independent Schools. Both provide education from pre-primary to upper secondary levels.